Compared to most new EU member countries, the Polish economy still looks better, both in terms of GDP growth and inflation. Most of these countries have experienced a sharper economic slowdown and higher inflation rates.

Inflation is on the rise in Poland but this growth is moderate compared to other countries which entered the EU together with Poland.

This year’s yields of main grains, and oilseed and turnip rapes are estimated to be lower than last year’s.

Yields of main grains will be lower owing to a decrease in the yields of grain mixtures, oat and barley. It is estimated that sugar beet, field vegetable and potato yields will be much lower compared to last year’s poor harvest. Yields of tree fruits will be much higher than last year’s and it is expected that soft fruit yields will also increase.
Preliminary survey results show that the total area unders increased by around 3% compared to last year while the total area under potato, sugar beet, field vegetable, oilseed rape and turnip rape decreased.
In August prices of most plant and animal products sold in marketplaces as well as purchase prices of potato, and pork and beef livestock increased. Purchase prices of grain were lower compared to last year’s very high prices. Prices of poultry, milk and beef livestock in marketplaces declined.
Prices of pork livestock in marketplaces were by over 10% higher than in August 2007. The increase in pork livestock prices coupled with a decrease in grain prices improved the profitability of pork production. However, the relationship between the price of pork livestock and the price of rye was still unfavourable for pork producers.
July surveys showed that the downward trend in the size of pig stock continued – in July 2008 the stock was smaller by almost 15% compared to July 2007. It was the smallest pig population since 1983.